Somerset’s Coppermine Project Shows Extensive Copper Mineralisation Across 1,665 km²

Early Signs of a Promising Copper District

Somerset Minerals Limited (ASX:SMM) has revealed encouraging early results from its maiden exploration campaign at the Coppermine Project in Nunavut, Canada. The initial surface sampling program has identified widespread copper mineralisation across three key districts, Coronation, Jura, and Laphroaig, through visual observations of copper minerals such as chalcocite, malachite, bornite, and native copper. These findings, while preliminary, suggest a district-scale opportunity in a region that has seen limited modern exploration since the 1970s.

Managing Director Chris Hansen highlighted the significance of these early observations, noting that the mineralisation often occurs in structurally favourable positions and aligns with historic drilling and geophysical anomalies. Somerset now controls the majority of the Copper Creek Basalt’s most prospective members, positioning itself as the largest landholder in the region with 102 exploration licences covering 1,665 square kilometres.

Targeting High-Impact Drill Zones

The company is preparing for a high-impact maiden drill campaign of approximately 1,500 metres, scheduled to commence in early July. The initial focus will be on the Coronation target, where reprocessed induced polarisation (IP) geophysical data has delineated multiple large, coincident geophysical and geochemical anomalies. Notably, anomalies K and L present chargeability responses two and a half times higher than the well-supported anomaly B, which has historical drill intercepts up to 40 metres thick and frequently ended in mineralisation.

At Jura, over 5 kilometres of outcropping copper mineralisation has been mapped, associated with a major regional fault zone, while Laphroaig has confirmed in-situ copper mineralisation over a 500-metre strike within a broader 2-kilometre historic trend. These targets, supported by both surface observations and geophysical data, offer multiple walk-up drill opportunities.

Historical Context and Strategic Land Position

The Coppermine Project area has a rich exploration history dating back to early 20th century geological surveys and a staking rush in the late 1960s. However, exploration activity waned due to unstable copper prices and logistical challenges. Somerset’s acquisition and consolidation of tenure, including exclusive exploration rights with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, have revitalised interest in this underexplored copper province.

The project’s geology is analogous to well-known copper districts such as Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula and Queensland’s Mt Isa region, featuring structurally controlled high-grade copper mineralisation in basaltic and sedimentary units. This geological setting underpins Somerset’s confidence in the potential for significant discoveries.

Next Steps and Market Implications

Assay results from the recent rock chip sampling campaign are expected within the next two to four weeks, which will provide critical data on copper grades and mineralisation continuity. Meanwhile, the company is fully permitted and funded for its upcoming drill program, with approvals secured from Canadian Indigenous and regulatory bodies. This positions Somerset to rapidly advance its exploration efforts and potentially unlock a new major copper district in one of the world’s last underexplored jurisdictions.

While visual observations are promising, Somerset cautions that these do not substitute for detailed assay and petrographic analyses, which will ultimately determine the economic viability of the mineralisation. Investors will be watching closely as drilling results emerge, which will be pivotal in validating the project’s potential and shaping Somerset’s growth trajectory.